News
Sheikh Gumi Supports Tax Reform Bills but Urges Changes to VAT for Fairness
Islamic cleric and scholar Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi has weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed Tax Reform Bills, which have faced strong opposition from northern governors, lawmakers, and traditional rulers.
The cleric described the bills as beneficial for all Nigerians, although he called for a review of the contentious Value Added Tax (VAT) component.
The Tax Reform Bills have sparked heated debates since they passed the second reading in the Senate last Thursday.
Northern leaders, including governors and members of the legislature, have expressed concern that the reforms could disproportionately impact their region.
Many traditional rulers have also voiced their apprehension, citing fears of economic imbalance and potential hardship for the already vulnerable populations in the North.
Addressing the matter on Tuesday, Sheikh Gumi emphasized that, while the tax bills are a step in the right direction for Nigeria’s economic progress, the contentious VAT provisions need careful reconsideration.
He stated that reviewing the VAT structure could alleviate the concerns of northern stakeholders without undermining the broader benefits of the proposed reforms.
In his words, “The Tax Reform Bills are fundamentally a good package for the nation.
However, the Value Added Tax element, which has raised significant concerns, should be reassessed to ensure it does not unfairly burden any region or group of people.”
The Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has spoken on Nigeria’s economy, stating that the country lacks a good maintenance culture.
She said “The fact is that endowments alone do not add value. Budgetary allocations alone do not lead to new roads or good maintenance.”
“We lack a maintenance culture in the country. I have to say that. I’m Nigerian, but we need that. We need better ports and digital infrastructure, and lower trade costs. Execution is what matters, and successful execution requires focus. It requires prioritisation.”
Politician and former presidential candidate Peter Obi speaks on President Bola Tinubu’s comments regarding the rising hunger and worsening economic situation in Nigeria.
It can be noted that the President recently stated that hunger has always existed in Nigeria.
Peter Obi responded “I watched with deep concern the statement made by President Bola Tinubu to the Catholic Bishops, that there has always been hunger in Nigeria, even before he was born.”
“While it is true that hunger has been a part of human life and has existed in our country for decades, such a statement appears insensitive to the plight of the millions of Nigerians who face worsening economic hardship today.”
Reports have been shared stating that the Nigerian Army has launched a new programme designed to train and improve the skills of engineers in tackling threats posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
The seminar is being organised by the 41 Engineer Brigade of the 1 Division Nigerian Army.
It was stated “Improvised Explosive Devices have become one of the greatest security threats confronting the Nigerian Army in ongoing counter-insurgency operations. Their widespread use has complicated military operations and humanitarian activities in conflict-affected areas.”
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